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The Republic of Cyprus has made a historical stride by becoming the 46th signatory of the Artemis Accords, marking the country's dedication to responsible and cooperative use of space. NASA Associate Administrator Jim Free, involved virtually, recognized Cyprus's commitment as a significant asset to the strengthening international framework aiming to ensure space exploration benefits all of humanity peacefully and transparently. The signing ceremony held in Nicosia, Cyprus, was a remarkable occasion also attended by James O'Brien, the assistant secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs for the U.S. Department of State.
Deputy Minister of Cyprus, Nicodemos Damianou, emphasized the nation's resolve to partake in safe and principled space exploration, highlighting the crucial role of international cooperation in this endeavor. As an EU member, Cyprus is strategically positioned between three continents, aspiring to become a pivotal member of the global space community.
The Artemis Accords, initiated in 2020 by NASA and the U.S. Department of State in collaboration with seven other nations, are a collection of principles fostering peaceful, transparent, and sustainable activities in outer space. These principles, grounded in the Outer Space Treaty among others, provide a framework that underpins the release of scientific data, as well as the best practices and norms of responsible behavior that NASA and its international partners advocate.
The recent assembly in Milan earlier this month saw dozens of Artemis Accords signatory nations convene, an indication of the growing global cooperation in space ventures. As Cyprus joins the ranks, the country takes a step towards enhancing its engagement not only with NASA but with the broader spacefaring community. With expectations of more countries becoming signatories in the near future, the Artemis Accords continue to build momentum towards a united effort for the exploration of the cosmos.
This development is a testament to the expanding global interest in space exploration, fostered under principles ensuring that space activities are carried out for the greater good. Cyprus's accession to the Artemis Accords heralds a new era wherein countries big and small are eager to join a collective voyage beyond our world, harnessing the boundless opportunities outer space offers, while safeguarding its vast and pristine environment.